The Correct Way To Wash Your Face

Who knew that there’s a secret technique to face-washing? Follow our tips to get the most out of your cleansing, exfoliating and toning routine every morning and night, especially during those colder months of the year.

There are a few different ways you can remove your makeup every evening, and just one is with a micellar water. This is the perfect option if you have a lot of heavy eye makeup and foundation, which can take a little longer to remove. Other ways include using facial wipes, cleansing oils and foam cleansers. Once your makeup has been completely removed, it’s then time to move onto cleansing.

Tip: Never use water which is really cold or really hot – the only water you should be using is right in the middle. Anything too extreme can cause redness, broken capillaries and dry patches.

If you’re wearing false lashes, refrain from pulling them off your eyes directly. This can actually cause your real lashes to fall out, which is never a good thing! Wet a damp cotton pad with makeup remover or micellar water and pat it over your eye instead.

Cleansing

A light cleanse is essential both at the beginning and at the end of the day, since it removes any skincare particles or bacteria from the previous night. One to two pumps is enough for your entire face and neck, then rub it in circular motions over your problem areas. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Tip: Even if you haven’t been wearing makeup during the day, it’s still essential to cleanse on a daily basis. It helps to remove any impurities from the skin without going for a deep-clean.

Exfoliating

Depending on your skin type, an exfoliator is one of the best ways to regulate the follicles and keep your face looking clear. Apply the product on damp hands, and slowly massage it over your face (taking care to avoid the eye area). Let it sit for a few seconds, then wash with lukewarm water.

Tip: Some exfoliators are packed with large micro-beads, which can actually disrupt the epidermis. If your skin is super-sensitive and prone to breakouts and redness, use a powder exfoliator instead. They’re gentle, and won’t make your face feel like it’s on fire.

Use in conjunction with a warm flannel or cleansing cloth to give your skin a deep-clean without the added pain. This will also remove any remnants of makeup which are still lurking around on your face.

Toning

While the jury is still out on the effectiveness of toners, the truth is that they help to regulate oil – especially on combination/oily skin types. Apply it with your fingers or onto a cotton pad, then dab it into the areas with enlarged pores. The forehead, t-zone, and chin are the most popular areas for this.

Tip: You might feel like your skin doesn’t benefit from a toner, but if you are trying it out for the first time, it’s important to note that a little goes a long way. Don’t go overboard and apply it near your eyes or neck since it’s a little too abrasive for these areas.

Moisturising

Together with serums, moisturises should be the last parts of your skincare regime. Look for a hydrating formula which matches your skin and doesn’t leave your face feeling overly oily or overly dry, which is a bad sign.

Tip: Take a pea-sized amount and dab it into all areas of your face. You might need a little more on your neck, and remember to push the product upwards into the jawline – this will help to prevent premature ageing down the track.

Image via Makeup

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